The World at Your Table

There’s nothing as wonderful as getting an unexpected package in the mail… especially if it’s a book, particularly a beautiful design book. The World at Your Table: Inspiring Tabletop Designs, is just that. For those of you who love design, or entertaining or simply love stunning coffee table books this is one to add to your collection.

Well- known interior designer, consummate hostess, and world traveler Stephanie Stokes presents inspiring tables set with irresistible items accumulated on her far-flung journeys that will inspire you create your own imaginative tabletops.

She is joined by Judith Nasatir photographer Mark Roskams for her second Rizzoli book. Melissa Biggs Bradley has written the forward.

The World at Your Table features transporting tablescapes set with evocative, eye-catching, and exotic items this adventurous spirit has gathered over the years. To enliven her tabletops, Stokes creates experiences in miniature using china, glassware, linens, candlesticks, and cutlery from such widely different destinations as Japan, Cartagena, Budapest, and London.

A little armchair travel, a little design inspiration, a little history, each chapter conjures the spirit of a particular place: Palm Beach's tropical lushness, Provence's remarkable charm, Portugal's artisanal refinement, and so much more. By pairing her travel photography with the featured tables, she illustrates how incorporating the treasures collected on one's travels can capture, express, and spark fresh memories at home.

Throughout, Stokes discusses the design principles that inform her choices — from color palettes to indigenous materials. You’ll also find a helpful section on storage. This stunning tabletop survey is ideal for all who love design, entertaining, and travel. I’ve always been one to incorporate unique items from travel into my home to make it uniquely personal. Why not incorporate them into your table decor to create table settings that are as wondrous as the places we have traveled to?

About The Authors:

Stephanie Stokes, a former photojournalist, created Architectural Digest's column "Designer Travels." In the 1980s Stokes started her interior design company; many projects have been published in published in AD, Traditional Home, and House Beautiful. She also authored Elegant Rooms That Work. Judith Nasatir is a lifestyle writer. Foreword writer Melissa Biggs Bradley is the founder of Indagare, a members-only, boutique travel company, and the author of Safari Style. Mark Roskams specializes in photographing architecture and design.

Thank you Rizzoli for this stunning book!

Publisher: Rizzoli
Publish Date: March 14, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Category: Cooking - Table Setting
US Price: $55.00
CDN Price: $75.00
ISBN: 978-0-8478-9905-0

Happy Feet: 10 Rainbow Sneakers you need now!

these sneakers are must haves … Who doesn’t like rainbows‽

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it’s like walking on sunshine, but better!
it’s like walking on a cloud, but better!
it’s like walking over the rainbow…
we all know that
Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high
There's a land that I heard of once in a lullaby
Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true
Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops

That's where you'll find me!

10 Things you simply must have for outdoor dining this winter

For those of us in chillier parts still wishing to have some semblance of a social life, safely and support our local restaurants, dining out is our only option, which as we head into the coldest months of the year can be challenging. But I have some great ideas to help keep you warm as you dine in the great outdoors this winter!

But get this, outdoor dining isn’t a new thing!

Europeans have been enjoying it forever… as have skiers.

Of course a bucolic, snow-covered landscape thick with white peaks and bright blue skies are just a dream for most of us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy ourselves and have FUN!

image via

I mean, we should be looking at outdoor dining as a GOOD thing… instead of looking at indoor dining as something we can’t do, let’s change the narrative and look at OUTDOOR dining as something we CAN DO… and HAVE FUN doing!

But first we need to be prepared and take the necessary steps to stay warm and cozy.

Obviously a warm winter coat is imperative. I’m not suggesting you invest your life savings and go all Canada Goose, but if this is just a drop in your bucket, by all means, DO! If there’s a winter to stay warm, this is it! And perhaps this investment will inspire you to spend more time outside… but if your pockets are more like mine, there are plenty of other super warm options at a fraction of the cost. I happen to LOVE my Northface down coat. While it’s not runway worthy, it’s stylish enough for me, and long enough to cover most of me. And is it ever warm!

Hats are a must. Scarves won’t really work… at least for me they won’t. I know it would end up wearing half my meal! But fingerless gloves are a resounding YES as is a rechargeable electric hand-warmer. Not sure about that? Then get yourself a healthy supply of disposable hand-warmers that you can place inside your fingerless gloves, and inside your boots to keep your toes toasty toasty toasty! Another way to keep those tootsies warm is to make sure you have a great pair of thermal socks…

Sure you can always wear ski or snowboarding pants, but you may find them a tad bulky. I’m a leggings girl and always have been so when I learned about these fleece lined leggings I was SOLD! Think stylish and chic, but yet as comfortable as your softest PJs. Amazing!

Staying warm outside while being relatively inactive is challenging for me. You see, I am always cold… except for the random hot flash that strongholds me out of the blue. Luckily, this has not happened while I’ve been outdoors, wrapped up like a burrito… yet!

Image via

Hopefully you’ll be seated near a fire-pit or heat lamp, but here’s one more thing (such a brilliant thing it is too!) to keep your warm… How about a technology-heated cushion… Yes, it’s a thing! Really!

So let’s have fun this winter, let’s get out and enjoy the outside and everything it offers, including our restaurants!

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond

Many of us are well into our 4th week of sheltering in place, the idea of slipping into another pair of leggings or swapping out PJs is getting old. The more time we spend at home, the more confined and antsy we become. With each and every day that passes our emotions are taking a toll - we vacillate between sadness and anxiety, anger and fear. In our attempts at normalcy we need to do those things that make us happy. This is a great time to fire up our inner creativity and to take advantage of technology to keep in touch with friends and family near and far. Another mood booster is to make an effort to get dressed. It’s time to say farewell to the same dingy sweats you’ve been rotating for weeks now, opt for comfortable styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond.

I love a loose and breezy skirt or dress. They’re beautiful and comfortable, perfect for wearing to lounge around the house, or to wear to dash out to the grocery store or take a scenic drive. On those cooler days layer a tunic or dress over a pair of leggings. Whether mini or midi, pair your skirt or dress with an oversized sweater or cardigan.

Below I share some dress styles and ideas that can be worn in and out of the home. I haves shared some sources for you, but if you are able I am strongly advocating that you support your local shops. Dresses like those shown below are readily available everywhere. Let’s do what we can to help our local boutique businesses.

Sheltering in place in style. Dress available at H+M

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Mini version available at H+M

Above: Worn at home this spotted dress is pure comfort, add heels, jewelry and shoes and the look is instantly transformed.

Below and Right: A Chunky oversized adds a layer of warmth when worn over a loose dress or skirt for indoor comfort, and looks polished enough to wear in public - to the market, and hopefully soon for all of us, to work or on the town.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond

Sheltering in place in style

Above: I probably would opt for leggings instead of jeans, but a loose blousy dress or tunic looks great both ways.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Dress via H+M

Above and below: My love for the little white dress knows no bounds. Whether midi or mini, they can be dressed up and down, worn at home, on the town, while running errands or at the beach.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Image via Just Fashion Now.

Sheltering in place in style. CP Shades Top available at Free People

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Dress available at Free People.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. CP Shades top available at Free People.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond, Dress via H+M

I choose to remain optimistic and hope that the days of quarantine and sheltering in place won’t last forever and that we will get out and be able to enjoy our summer. And when those days arrive we will be more than ready! Pretty accessories complete an outfit and dress up even the simplest shift. A pair of pearl slides, a silk scarf, pretty earrings, a straw bag and a pair of tortoise sunglasses are a must in every wardrobe.

Classic accessories to dress up your outfit. A simple silk scarf adds an easy sophistication with no effort.

Classic accessories to dress up your outfit. Sunglasses make the outfit. Image via Stylecaster

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Dress via Zara

Sheltering in place, in style.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Image Sofi Fahrman

Above: I haven’t met a caftan I haven’t loved! Perfect for quarantine mode around the house or garden. Add a belt and sandals for a more polished look for later on.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond.

Above: I love the easy and chic look of a simple breezy dress tossed on over a pair of pants and kitten heel shoes. Image via https://www.gosto-disto.com/

Below: Toss a sweater over your shoulders for an instantly dressed up loo with a European flair.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Oversized shirt dress. Image via We Heart It.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Free People

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Cashmere sweaters available at Free People.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Dress available at H+M

Above and Left: Navy and black are classic staples that are always right. Mini or midi, worn barefoot around the home, with sandals, sneakers or dressed up with little heels for out on the town.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Image via Pinterest.

Classic styles to wear in and around the house, during quarantine and beyond. Sandals from Zara

Classic accessories to dress up your outfit. Straw bag via Etsy

Classic accessories to dress up your outfit. Love pearls? Go big or go home! Image via.

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

Newly released At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs is the eagerly anticipated follow-up to the American edition, At Home with Dogs and their Designers. This time we visit with designers across the pond and and celebrate the English Country life. You’ll be taken on a beautiful journey into and through the English countryside, featuring some of the loveliest homes and gardens, including those belonging to Kit Kemp, Veere Grenney, and Anouska Hempel. At Home in the English Countryside is both inspirational and informative. Yes, it is possible to live stylishly with dogs! Whether featuring rooms that are glamorously bohemian or casually aristocratic, the constant theme is always a devotion to dogs, from pedigreed pugs to rescue terriers.

You will see that even the most elegant, stylish, and well-appointed house is nothing but a shell without its inhabitants, especially the canine kind. At Home in the English Countryside features over 200 pages of beautiful images offering readers a personal, guided tour into some of England’s most spectacular homes and grounds. While we’re all grounded and sheltering in place in our homes, there’s never been a better time to get lost in a gorgeous book such as this.

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

“Whether living in a castle or cottage, these designers are as devoted to their beloved dogs as they are to the sumptuous interiors that have created for themselves at home. Living with dogs in the country after all, is as quintessentially English as chintz, Wellies, and roses.”

— Susanna Salk

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

At Home in the English Countryside: Designers and their Dogs

About The Author

Lifestyle and design author, Susanna Salk has written many books, including the successful Be Your Own Decorator and The Power of Pattern. She also hosts (and co-produces) the "At Home With" video series featuring visits with leading tastemakers. Photographer Stacey Bewkes is the founder of Quintessence, a lifestyle blog and the co-producer of the "At Home With" series. Foreword writer Nina Campbell is the doyenne of English interior design today.

Published by Rizzoli International, March 2020
AT HOME IN THE ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE: DESIGNERS AND THEIR DOGS By Susanna Salk, Photography by Stacey Bewkes, Foreword by Nina Campbell

Hardcover / 8.5” x 11” / 224 pages / 200 color photographs $50.00 US / ISBN: 978-0-8478-6478-2 / Rizzoli New York ON SALE: April 2020 www.rizzoliusa.com

Note: This was written in partnership with Rizzoli New York, and I received a complimentary copy of At Home in the English Countryside.

Decorate Happy: Bold Colorful Interiors by Anthony Baratta

Perhaps you’ve been meaning to tackle the rest of your home… or perhaps you’ve been meaning to refresh those areas that suddenly seem dated and stale. You simply haven’t had the time. Well now you do, and I have just the inspiration to get you on your way! Anthony Baratta’s Decorate Happy is a perfect way to start.

Decorate Happy: Bold Colorful Interiors by Anthony Baratta

DECORATE HAPPY is a delicious pattern-filled guide showcasing Baratta’s noted preppy-chic decorating style. His happy, maximalist rooms are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Whether you live in the country or the big city, there is plenty of inspiration to draw from. As you soak in the pages you’ll delight in his classic high-color, high-pattern all-American style that encompasses both the historic and the modern .

Featured are twelve homes of varying scale, location, and purpose, each with BOLD, COLORFUL INTERIORS that will bring a sense of joy to all who experience them. Among them are:

Decorate Happy: Bold Colorful Interiors by Anthony Baratta

• A Deer Valley, Utah ski home takes inspiration from the backdrop of its majestic mountains.

• Nautical influences in a Rye, NY home on the LI Sound feel like a sea captain’s home.

• Mid-century modern glam in Ft Lauderdale is an exercise in bold restraint to create drama.

• A nature photographer’s retreat in NY’s Adirondack Mountains is full of rustic, historical charm.

• A country house in Connecticut, originally a carriage house, is elevated by a fearless use of the traditional blue and white palette.

• With a home that could be called a little bit of Provence in Los Angeles, this splendid respite from a city that skews modern is regal yet inviting. 

• A Vermont condo is an unexpected ski retreat that is not only functional/durable but supercool.

• Cotton candy pink makes the fantasy of a Manhattan apartment complete, with a nod towards the ever-chic Dorothy Draper.

• A Shingle-style Hamptons home one block from the ocean allows for the light to be front and center in the home’s décor.

• Baratta’s own home in the Hamptons is a laboratory for risk taking among the things he loves most, while his Manhattan high-rise apartment is whimsical, but doesn’t compete against his floor-to-ceiling views of the Hudson River.

• Baratta’s undertaking of Colonial Williamsburg’s Palmer House as designer-in-residence is best summed up by Baratta: “I love this house because it shows how we live today—inspired by the past, influenced by the future, and impacted by the world around us.”

“People’s lives are like colorful quilts—all of the crazy pieces eventually come together to form one amazing, beautiful whole. No one’s life story is a simple beige blanket...To decorate happy, let your home be an extension of yourself and look for things that bring you joy.” –Anthony Baratta

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Throughout the book Baratta shares his Four Fearless Decorating Ideas, some of which I have shared with you.

1. Industrial pieces fill large spaces
2. Heavily patterned rooms need balance
3. Stone is a forgiving material
4. Juxtapose rustic with formal

When working with dynamic patterns, there must never be chaos. Everything in a house needs to stay within a consistent palette.

1. Embrace the old
2. Paint your floors
3. Find one thing that becomes your signature style
4. Tasteful touches can go anywhere

1. Defy conventions
2. Spread the wealth
3. Celebrate screened porches
4. Crewel Rules (Crewelwork is a type of embroidery)

Decor can be dialed up or down, such as a quiet houndstooth, a bold stripe, a muted solid, or a vibrant hue.

1. When in doubt, keep it
2. Choose colors that look good on yu
3. Even designers need designers
4. Repeat motifs or themes you like throughout your decorating

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Anthony Baratta, the king of East Coast chic, is one of the most celebrated and respected interior designers of the day with a global following of loyal fans. Formerly half of the iconic design dream team Diamond Baratta, Baratta has been named one of Traditional Home's 20 Design Icons, honored by the Cooper-Hewitt, awarded Benjamin Moore's coveted Hue Award for lifetime achievement in design, and named the inaugural designer in residence in Colonial Williamsburg. The author of two previous books, All-American: The Exuberant Style of William Diamond and Anthony Baratta
and Diamond Baratta Design, Baratta opened his own firm in 2011.

DECORATE HAPPY: BOLD, COLORFUL INTERIORS
By Anthony Baratta with Antonia van der Meer
Hardcover / 8¾”x 11”/ 240 pages / 150 color photographs
$45.00 US / ISBN: 978-08478-6682-3 / Rizzoli New York
PUBLICATION DATE: March 2020
www.rizzoliusa.com

Your Stress-reducing Guide to Decluttering & Downsizing with Style and Grace

It’s likely indicative of my age and where I am in life, but it seems that more and more of my peers and those in my age group are actively downsizing or getting ready to do so. After spending so much of our lives upsizing, we’re now headed down the other side. In our 20s we left college and moved into our first apartments. From there we married and, as we began having children, moved into our “starter” homes which we quicky outgrew as our families expanded and upsized into homes that could comfortably accommodate our busy, varied, active lifestyle. And then life, as life does, begins to shift again and we find that we no longer need such large spaces as our children grow, leave for college and then on to begin lives of their own, moving into their first nests.

Whether you’re downsizing for the first or second time, whether your children are just leaving the nest or have long been out and have families of their own, or whether you’re downsizing due to the death of a spouse or divorce, I have designed this guide to make the transition to a smaller home easier and less stressful.

I’m in my early 50s and I first downsized 8 years ago after my divorce. I downsized again this past fall, from a small house to a condo, in order to simplify my life and curtail my expenses. Condo living, for me - at this stage of my life - is ideal. I have one at home on a full time basis and the older two who are off at college are really only around on the occasional weekend and holidays. I love not having to worry about yard and lawn upkeep, raking, snow removal, etc. And because I’m in a building my utilities have decreased substantially. This lifestyle may not be forever, but for now it’s perfect.

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. – William Morris

I had been thinking of the second downsize for about a year before I actually moved and so there were steps that I took well in advance of the move that certainly helped.

Below are tips that should help ease your stress level from well in advance and through the move itself.

Downsizing and Decluttering Image Lonny June 2019

6-12 months before your move

• Start decluttering - Walk through your home, room by room, and start looking for things to toss.

• Get rid of the small stuff first - magazines, mail, unnecessary paperwork, etc.

• Try to throw away 10 things every day. I try to subscribe to this daily, even post move. It really helps to keep the clutter in check.

• As you make your way through the smaller stuff work up to larger items.

• Take inventory of what you have.

• Get rid of duplicates.

• Track how often you use things.

• Discard the things that you don’t use regularly - Start by purging drawers throughout your home. From bathrooms to bedrooms to kitchens, drawers tend to be catch-alls. Walk through the house with a large garbage bag.

• Purge closets for clothes and other items that are no longer used or have been outgrown.

• Donate, sell, toss or recycle these items.

• We tend to collect books. Sift through your collection. Are there books that have no meaning, that you won’t read again, that are simply taking up shelf space? If they’re in good shape donate these books to places like Goodwill, schools, or pass them on to friends. Please don’t throw books away!

• Eliminate rooms that you won’t have in your new home. Will you lose a dining room or guest room? Consider selling and donating items that won’t fit. Keep in mind that you may be able to repurpose some of these items. Perhaps a den will also become a makeshift office, dining or guest room.

• Organize family photos, kids artwork, awards, trophies, etc. Toss duplicates and items you don’t want to hang on to. Carefully package up the rest. I suggest starting this 6-12 months in advance, because this can be a slow process. It’s fun to sit among the boxes and revisit old memories.

• Most importantly, STOP ACQUIRING NEW ITEMS!

3-6 months before your move

• Continue your purging by creating 3 categories for your items:
  Yes, Maybe and No.

• For the No pile donate and/or toss the items you no longer want or need.

• Repeat the same with the Maybe pile.

• NOTE: If you are unsure with what to do with your Maybe pile, put said items aside and pack them up. While you don’t want to move too many of these items, I found that I had over purged and ended up needing to replace some of the items that I had tossed.

• Start planning garage and yard sales as well as other means of selling your items, such as Ebay, etsy, Poshmark, etc

• If you plan on placing items in storage now is the time to do so.

• Now’s the time to tackle the items in the garage and basement that haven’t been gone through. Boxes of items stored? When was the last time these boxes were opened? If you’ve forgotten about them or haven’t missed them now’s the time to donate and toss.

• Will you have a basement or garage in your new residence? If not, get rid of items you won’t need or have room for such as cans of paints, hoses, and large items that you’ll have trouble storing.

• If you’re moving to a condo complex or apartment building you can donate items that you have used for landscaping and yard maintenance such as rakes, shovels, snow blowers, ice melt, large bags of potting soil. There will be plenty of people happy to take these off your hands.

1-3 months before your move

• Start enlisting family and friends to help

• Start gifting valuable items to family

• Now is the time enlist and hire professionals

• Price out and book your moving company

• Meet with stagers and organizers to help your sorting and downsizing process

• Visit your new home to get the floorplan

• Measure your items in advance

• Donate, store or sell furniture and larger items that won’t be moving.

• Consider the details of your new home (are you moving to a smaller house, to an apartment or condo) to see which pieces of furniture and larger items will fit and make arrangements for those pieces that won’t be moving.

• For those looking to update the look of their home now is the perfect opportunity to do so.

• If you plan on purchasing new furniture start with the essentials - beds, sofas, etc., so that you can design your space as you settle in.

• Line up a cleaning crew to clean up after the move.

• Begin purging the kitchen. Go through pantry and refrigerator and toss all items that are near or past their expiration date. Toss items that are half used and that won’t be moving.

• 1-2 weeks before the move use up as many perishables as possible. Clear out the freezer.

• Start packing up kitchen items and all non-essential household items.

Your Stress-reducing Guide to Decluttering & Downsizing with Style and Grace

1-3 weeks before the move

This is always the most stressful time. You’ll likely start to get very emotional as memories start flooding in. You’re likely to be exhausted and emotionally drained as well as a bit discombobulated with your life now dispersed in box upon box.

• Make sure you have a support system in place so that you’re not doing this all by yourself. There will be emotional days ahead, especially if you’re doing this alone.

• Make sure you set aside time for yourself to unwind and relax. Don’t use the move as an excuse not to go to the gym. You’ll find that your regular workouts will both energize you and help keep you calm.

• Keep some nice clothes set aside so that you can socialize. It’s too easy to get trapped into the Moving Bubble. Enjoy some much deserved time away from the house.

  Rely on takeout and UberEats if you are able. Don’t use these as excuses to eat poorly. Some great healthy takeout options are:

• Sushi

• Poke bowls

• Salads/Soups

• Personal sized pizza - forgo the large and get individual servings and pair with a salad

• Chicken/turkey/veggie burgers (opt for sweet potato fries over French Fries)

• If going with Chinese go for the steamed options and brown rice

2-3 days before the move

• Pack an overnight bag that you can easily access for toiletries, sleepwear and clothes for the day after the move.

• Make sure that the boxes you’ll need to unpack first are well marked and easy to get to

• Go to the bank to get tip money for the moving crew

• Have bottles of water and snacks on hand for the moving crew

• Breathe

The big day!

Relax and start looking forward to your new, simpler, easier life!

A Renter's Guide to Decorating Beautifully

The Renter’s Guide to Decorating Beautifully - Image

More and more are opting to rent instead of purchase their home. At midlife changes from divorce, to death, to empty nests, have many refocusing as they move forward. Some simply want to downsize and simplify.

In the Northeast, and many other parts of the country where real estate is at a premium, homeownership packs with it a great deal of responsibility from maintenance and repairs, not to mention incomprehensible taxes.

There’s an ease of living and peace of mind that comes along with renting. After decades of homeownership many are pleased to be released from these responsibilities yet want their living spaces to be as personal as their own.

I have been renting for nearly 8 years now. As a single mother of 3 I didn’t want the headaches that come with homeownership, but it’s important that my home feels like my own.

How far you’ll want to go, and how much you’ll want to invest will depend on your budget and how long you plan on residing at your new location - whether you’re just starting out in the world or you’ve watch your babies safely fly away from the nest.

Yesterday I met with a friend of mine who is a Realtor. She told me that one of her clients recently sold her home and is renting until she can find and renovate her next home. They found a rental that no one wanted because it needed a little bit of TLC. So her client decided to change out the front door (curb appeal is everything!) and add some shiplap to the walls. She did have to seek the owners’ permission to do this and initially they thought she was a little crazy, but they saw how this added to the value of the property and, when the changes were made, everyone was happy. The out of pocket cost to the renter was about $3500. While many renters can’t do this, for this woman it was a small step to making a rental feel like her own.

For more on moving, head on over to my piece The Single Mom’s guide to moving: Tips and tricks to save time and money.

Below I offer some tips and guidelines to help you transition seamlessly from homeowner to renter.

First things first. Let’s talk about walls…

Decorating your walls in a rental home or apartment - image

Decorating your walls in a rental home or apartment

We’ll hope that all walls are in satisfactory shape. This means that they’re newly (or almost newly) painted and that all dings and holes have already been sealed and repaired.

Consider the accent wall. Image

To paint or not to paint? That is the question.

You’ll want to find out, first and foremost, if you are allowed to paint, and if so will you be required to return the walls to their original colors? For those interested in painting you’ll need to ask yourselves if it’ll be worth your time and money, and ask yourselves how long you plan on residing in your rental. If you’re really all about color, and trust me I get it, consider an accent wall.

Decorating your rental with removable wallpaper - Image

Removable Wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is a great alternative to paint. Wallpaper is tres en vogue at the moment and there are some terrific options out there at the moment as this sector continues to grow and evolve. For paper sources consider, Chasing Paper, Spoonflower, Anthropologie, Hygge & West, Mayflower Paper.

Decorating your rental with art - Image

Hanging Art

Art is always a good idea. From oil to watercolor to pen and ink to photography, I say leave no wall bare! Adding art to your walls adds warmth, color and dimension. It’s also the easiest way to personalize your space. For ideas on hanging art (gallery walls) read here, where to hang your art, read here, and hanging your children’s art, read here.

Are you looking to purchase or supplement your existing art?

Some of the best places to buy are consignment and antique shops, local boutiques, art galleries and art shows. Don’t rule out yard sales, flea markets and moving sales. I’ve found some amazing pieces just by getting creative in my search. Headed out on holiday or vacation?

Artwork doesn’t have to be a painting or a photograph. Some other ideas to consider are:
Maps, both new and old
Flags of varying sizes and colors
Old Photographs
Children’s artwork
Old Magazine covers
Movie Posters

Decorating with mirrors. Imavia via Domaine, MORGAN LEVY ; DESIGN: SHELBY GIRARD FOR HAVENLY

Decorating with Mirrors

Mirror, Mirror on the wall….

I love, love, love, love incorporating mirrors into my decor. Mirrors, when placed strategically, can make a room seem brighter and larger. I recently created a gallery by installing mirrors of various sizes on a large, empty space. Two of the larger mirrors stand on the floor and lean against the wall, the rest are hanging. More mirror design inspo here, and here.

Choosing the right furniture for your rental - Image

Furniture

I’m going to assume that most of you will be bringing a fair amount of your furniture with you and therefore not starting over completely from scratch. But even if you are the following may be helpful.

You may find that some of your pieces are old and outdated and you may not want to move them. Or that their size and style won’t suit your new home. If this is the case try not to dump them, see if you can sell or donate them instead.

I’m a firm believer that you should buy the absolute best that you can afford. Whether this means a bespoke purchase or one that is second hand, that is completely up to you. Likely you’ll fall somewhere in the middle. There’s a time and a place for Ikea. It is not all the time or all over the place. It’s a great temporary fix - perhaps you want to outfit a child’s bedroom that won’t be used all that often. Or you need some bookcases in a child’s room or study. Looking to add a couch to a casual den and don’t want to worry about spills and stains? Then Ikea might be your choice. And you can walk up the furniture ladder until you find the style, size and price that best matches your budget and taste.

As with the artwork I’ve found some gorgeous pieces at consignment shops and second hand stores. I love the bones and structure of the older pieces. If you’re handy you may want to paint or recover furniture yourself. Look for classic styles that you can personalize.

You may not need any or much in the way of furniture, but have an empty space begging for something to occupy it.

Image courtesy of Doris Leslie Blau

Rugs and Carpeting

Lie like a rug…

Whether your rental has hardwood, tile or wall to wall carpeting, the addition of area rugs will elevate your living space. In open floor plans area rugs can create designated areas that otherwise wouldn’t exist. Area rugs add color, texture and help to absorb sound which is particularly important if kids are residing with you.

Selecting the right rugs for your rental - Image via Domaine MORGAN LEVY ; DESIGN: SHELBY GIRARD FOR HAVENLY

Freshly Cut Flowers

I mean, need I say more?

Accessorizing your home - Image via The Pink Dream

Assorted Accessories

Other ways to add decorative touches:
Coffee table books
Candles votives as well as candle sticks
Trays
Pillows
Blankets
Plants
Vases
Ornamental Dishes
Sculptures of varying sizes
Bowls of fruit
Oversized shells (especially when collected from a trip)
Bowls filled with matchbooks
Collectibles

but most importantly…

Lighting your rental home. Image via etsy

Lighting

Talk to any interior designer and they will stress the importance of good lighting. Not only does it set the room’s tone, but it sets functionality. You may find that some older homes (prevalent in New England) don’t have much in terms of built in lighting. You may find that some rooms do while others do not. It will be up to you to add lighting that will not only enhance your home’s functionality, but will serve as a focal point. Luckily there’s some fabulous lighting options out there!

Your rental is indeed your home and It is indeed possible to decorate a rental beautifully so that it seems like your own.

Entertaining at Home: Inspirations from Celebrated Hosts

Entertaining at Home is both a gentle guide and beautiful book filled with stories and anecdotes shared amongst friends. Entertaining at Home is as much for the consummate entertainer as it is for the novice looking for some tried and true strategies. Part recipe collection, part entertaining guide, this gorgeous collection of entertaining ideas will inspire both the novice as well as the veteran hostess. From the heart of Texas to coastal New England - and everywhere in between, a wealth of mouth-watering images, recipes and how tos ( flower arranging, playlist curating, cocktail curation, table setting) will have you ready and wanting to entertain no matter the season!

You will immediately lose yourself in the pages as you feast your eyes on all the wonderful recipes, table settings and glimpses into all the spectacular homes. Enjoy this book with a glass of wine or hot cup of tea, in front of a cozy fire or out on a warm, breezy porch - You’ll want to have a pad of paper and pen in hand as you begin to jot down your own ideas and create your own guest list.

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I first met Ronda about 8 years ago. Then living in Scotland, she was in New York elbow-deep working on her first book, Designers at Home, a gorgeous book that brought us into the homes of the world’s most sought after designer. In September her second book, Entertaining at Home, was released. I received my gorgeous copy in the mail and instantly began devouring it. This stunning book brings us into the homes of designers, chefs and tastemakers, who share with us their tips and strategies to creating memorable occasions and parties.

I had hoped to see Ronda in Newport, at the home of Bettie Pardee, this past summer but life got in the way. Child obligations prevented me from attending her book signing in New York, but I was thrilled to finally be able to catch her in New Preston, Connecticut this past weekend where she and designer and contributor Amy Beth Cupp were signing copies in the town’s charming shop, Privet House.

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ENTERTAINING AT HOME contains a variety of delectable and easy-to-master recipes, such as bacon-wrapped pretzels, seafood chowder, spicy gazpacho, and refreshing sangrias. In addition to Ronda’s own Soup on Sunday fête:

•Jay Draper and Mark Thompson, owners of Shoppe in Birmingham, host brunch in their greenhouse.

•Debbie Propst, president of One King’s Lane, perfects the lazy breakfast.

•Kimberly Schlegel Whitman, lifestyle maven, pulls together a most befitting Mother’s Day brunch.

•Sarah Eilers, designer and gardener makes breakfast in the garden a memorable meal. •Grace Kaynor, interior designer and bridge aficionado offers a chic alternative to game night with an intimate game brunch.

•Lynn Wyatt, social icon and international philanthropist, does lunch on her ranch, Texas style!

•Katie Scott, New Orleans-native and Houston-based interior designer, whips up a Creole feast emblematic of Southern hospitality.

•Cris Briger, of Briger Design,lays out a smorgasbord of Nordic treats that warm winter appetites.

•Ware Porter embraces the All-American meatloaf favored by Bill Blass, served among the many layers of his colorful and whimsical camelback home in New Orleans.

•Tricia Foley, the lifestyle doyenne with a penchant for all things blanc, hosts a natural lunch on Long Island.

•Amy Beth Cupp makes a bountiful barn lunch in Connecticut a true reflection of her artistic roots.

•Mac Hoak and Fred Perkins, owners of Mecox Gardens,create a stylish spread of salad buffets to encourage wandering around the garden.

•Suzanne Kasler, a lover of all things Parisian,creates an ooh-la-la lunch at her Regency-style home in Atlanta.

•Denise and Scott McGaha do BBQ right in their Dallas backyard, as only an interior designer and grill master know how.

•Bettie Bearden Pardee,the epitome of old-school elegance, serves a second-to-none New England chowder in her orangerie at her Newport, RIhome.

•Julia Reed is famous for her cocktail parties, one of the most coveted invitations in all New Orleans.

•Bill Ingram, architect, loves nothing more than a pre-theatre cocktail party that is a satisfying as it is detail-oriented.

•Shelly Rosenberg acknowledges that all great parties wind up in the kitchen, so she starts (and ends) her party there.

•Caroline Harper Knapp, the maven behind the House of Harper blog, keeps cocktail parties simple and chic with charcuterie boards.

•Pam Kelley offers invaluable advice for moving a supper indoors when the weather turns at the last minute.

•Heather Chadduck Hillegas embraces the warmth of her backyard firepit to make for cozy gatherings that extend well into the night.

•Ruth Davis, co-founder of FOUND, turns her library into a dining room to celebrate the end of summer and fall’s gentle arrival with a hearty harvest supper.

•Cathy Kincaid makes Saturday afternoons an occasion, colorful and bright, but with an unmistakable ease.

•Bethany McCann hosts a seaside fête with a twist, shying away from a typical nautical theme, she embraces the florals in her china cabinet to serve her seafood supper.

•Courtnay Tartt Elias does a purple party like no one else!

•Carla McDonald, founder of The Salonniere, recreates a dinner from the legendary Stork Club: vintage décor, cocktails, and music set the stage.

•Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper do a gumbo dinner in their New Orleans shotgun double-camelback style home while keeping things “interesting.”

•Danielle Rollins hosts a July 4 th celebration at her Atlanta home that is red-white-and-blue and full of American classics such as deviled eggs, fried chicken, and cherry pie.

•Lisa Hilderbrand, antiques dealer, hosts Thanksgiving at her Connecticut home where the décorisfestive and dramatic, and a menu that transfers from the table to the couch with ease for football viewing.

•Christy Fordhostsan annual mother-daughter holiday tea party at her home in Charlottesville, where each and every delectable delight celebrates the season.

•Susan and SkylarDabbarkeep Christmas dinner light and airy with snow-kissed touches and large does of nostalgia, finished with desserts in front of a roaring fire.

•Jan Roden kicks the new year off on the right foot with a New Year’s buffet full of make-ahead treats and an open-door policy that comes with sweet treats to-go, as they are usually the last indulgence before resolutions kick in.

ENTERTAINING AT HOME Inspirations from Celebrated Hosts By Ronda Carman Foreword by India Hicks Photography by Michael Hunter and Matthew Mead Hardcover / 7¾”x 10¼”/ 256 pages 325 color photographs$45.00 US / ISBN: 978-0-8478-6601-4 Rizzoli New York / September 2019

The Poncho, always effortless, always stylish, always chic

A wardrobe must. 
Always comfortable.
Always chic.
Always effortless.

The poncho is every girl's best friend. (And if it isn’t, it should be!)
The poncho is as forgiving as it is stylish. It is as adaptable as it is consistent. Whether worn casually with jeans or more formally, this stylish cloak-like garment is the perfect piece to wear as the temperatures start to dip. Large, loose and blanket-like, layers can be easily worn beneath for added warmth. When you can't decide whether you'd prefer to wear a sweater or a jacket... Look no further. 

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